Women’s Plus-size Swimwear Designed to Flatter Your Curves

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Updated 1:56 pm, Friday, November 2, 2012

Fresh and Flirty Swimsuits for Every Body

This time of year, the promise of warm beaches, blue skies and crystal-clear waters is luring thousands to the Caribbean, Hawaii, Australia, Thailand and beyond. But the thought of stripping down to next to nothing keeps a lot of women on the sidelines. You've seen them, curvy, beautiful gals cloaked in hats and caftans sipping cocktails poolside, or covered in shorts and tees playing Frisbee, but never swimming at the beach. Well, girls – that time is over!

With new cuts, great fabrics and support, real support, plus-size swimwear is more stylish and flattering than ever before. So if you're ready to get off the sidelines, take off your cover-up and join the party, look for suits that are fresh, flirty and have plenty of spandex to keep everything in place. Three great styles worth trying include:

— The Classic Bikini. Historically, plus-size swimsuits have been dark and dowdy, but today's bikinis will let you buck that trend while still holding you in. To prevent a muffin top, look for mid- to high-rise bottoms – think vintage Hollywood. Add a hip-grazing tankini with adjustable straps, and a little bit of shirring – and you'll be lifted and supported from top to bottom.

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— One-Piece Swimsuits. Sexy, practical and with plenty of coverage, one-piece swimsuits are often the default option for women of all sizes. When it comes to choosing a plus-size option, though, flimsy fabric just won't do. Instead, look for a suit that's about 80% nylon and 20% spandex, which will help smooth your shape. If you want to channel your inner Marilyn Monroe (remember the infamous white swimsuit?), look for suits with waist-defining shirring, strappy backs and low-cut legs.

— Swim Shorts & Skirts. For days when you may do a little hiking and a little swimming – or just afternoons when you're looking for something a little more playful, a pair of swim shorts or a flirty swim skirt is the answer. Look for mid- to high-rise bottoms and a hemline that hits just below the fullest part of your thigh. That way, you'll avoid looking matronly and still have the freedom to move. Pair them with a tankini top for a sleek look that's designed for an active day.

For times when a cover-up is necessary, like at restaurants, during jaunts to the restroom, or when you're popping in a beach-side shop, ditch the caftan in favor of a pareo slung about your hips. That way, you'll be covered but in a uniquely feminine way that still lets you flaunt your curves.